Bonile Khanyi
A Grade 11 pupil allegedly hanged himself in Ekangala near Bronkhorstspruit on Wednesday, after discovering he had failed his grade, according to the Gauteng Department of Education.
It is alleged his mother found him hanging in the garage at his home, shortly after receiving his year-end academic report.
He was a pupil from Strauss Secondary School in Ekangala.
In a statement, MEC of Gauteng Department of Education Panyaza Lesufi expressed shock at the incident and conveyed his condolences to the family.
“It is regrettable that such an incident occurred, as the department is working jointly with NGO’s such as Childline South Africa,” said Lesufi.
“We would like to convey our most sincere condolences to the family of the departed learner.”
The department also urged parents and the community to closely monitor the behaviour of learners and, if necessary, approach counsellors for assistance.
“The department appeals to learners not to commit suicide, and emphasise that failing a grade does not signify the end, we all fail at some point; however, we must be encouraged to start over and strive to reach our desired goals,” said Lesufi.
Learners experiencing depression due to their poor academic performance have been urged to contact the Childcare toll-free line on 0800 055 555, or Childline Gauteng on 011 645 2000.
The Department says trauma counselling will be provided to those who have been affected.
